The Blues will travel to Turf Moor to face Burnley - seeking European football of their own - on Thursday, live on Sky Sports Premier League, ahead of a trip to Wembley to face Mark Hughes' Saints in the FA Cup semi-final three days later.

Conte, who won the Premier League in his first season, dismissed the assertion his players have to produce a strong finish to help improve his chances of staying in charge.

"I was a player, and the players must play every game, and not for me, but for the club, and for the fans," Conte said.

"They must have great respect for this badge, they don't have to play for the coach.

"They have to play for the club, our fans, and to show great character like today. This is the best possible way for a player to be a fantastic professional."